Senior Adviser - General Assembly

Senior Adviser – General Assembly

The New Zealand Permanent Mission in New York (Mission) represents the New Zealand Government at the United Nations (UN). By building and enhancing relationships with UN member states, the UN Secretariat and Agencies, and other key stakeholders, the Mission is responsible for fulfilling the government’s multilateral priorities and international obligations. The Mission takes a distinctly New Zealand approach that reflects our interests and values, including our country’s culture, diversity, and heritage.

The Mission is seeking a Senior Adviser – General Assembly to support the Permanent Representative in delivery of the Mission’s key priorities in the UN General Assembly.

About the role - Kōrero mō te tūranga

Working directly with the Permanent Representative, the Senior Adviser – General Assembly is responsible for:

• Contributing to the advancement of New Zealand’s foreign policy by providing analytical and effective policy advice.
• Supporting the achievement of New Zealand’s presence and participation in the UN General Assembly.
• Managing priority initiatives and producing long-term strategic reporting in line with New Zealand’s interests at the UN.

The appointment range for this role is USD USD$90,000– $117,301 total remuneration. In addition to remuneration, full health insurance, including vision and dental, is offered.

 Who are we looking for? - Mā‎ wai te mahi nei?

• In depth knowledge and understanding of the UN and how it operates, with a particular focus on the General Assembly.
• Ability to quickly form relationships and networks with representatives from other Member States, the UN Secretariat and relevant Agencies, and relevant think tanks and NGOs, all while demonstrating cultural sensitivity.
• Proven skills in written and oral communication including the ability to effectively present New Zealand positions and negotiate for desired outcomes.
• Understanding of The Treaty of Waitangi/Te Tiriti, Te Reo Māori and Māori customs and protocols would be beneficial.      

Why the New Zealand Permanent Mission? - Ngā hua o te mahi i te Manatū Aorere

We are committed to a focus on leadership, talent, training and development, and flexible work options consistent with guidance from the Public Service Commission.  Check out our benefits page to find out more about why we love working here.

MFAT is Rainbow Tick accredited. We value diversity and are committed to providing an inclusive culture where everyone feels supported, valued, and a sense of belonging.  We welcome applications from people from a diverse range of backgrounds. 

About us - Mō mātou

Our people represent New Zealand on and offshore, and in doing so make New Zealanders safer and more prosperous.  By building connections with and influencing other countries and international institutions, we advance New Zealand’s interests and pursue New Zealand's values.  We provide advice to the Government on the implications for New Zealand of what is happening in the world. 

Please note: This is not a diplomatic staff role.  This is a ‘Staff Employed at Post’ (locally engaged) role based in New York.  

If the successful candidate has worked or lived in New Zealand and are subsequently employed as locally engaged staff in a New Zealand Government Embassy or High Commission (in this case the Permanent Mission), they may, subject to individual circumstances, have New Zealand Tax Residency obligations. We advise any applicant, who may be in this situation, to discuss their tax residency status with the New Zealand Inland Revenue (IRD) and determine any potential personal tax obligations to IRD.

To Apply/Interested? - Me pēhea te tuku tono

Apply today with your CV and cover letter combined into a single PDF attachment with “Application – Senior Adviser – General Assembly” in the subject line to nzpmun.recruitment@gmail.com. You may also direct questions about the role to this email address also. Due to the volume of applications, please follow these instructions carefully.

For a copy of the position description please email nzpmun.recruitment@gmail.com.

You must be a New Zealand Citizen and able to obtain and maintain an appropriate New Zealand Government Security clearance. If required, the successful applicant can be supported with a G visa to undertake this position.

Use this online tool to self-check your eligibility for a Confidential security clearance. Please note that this tool is not part of the formal security clearance process: http://www.protectivesecurity.govt.nz/eligibility-tool

Applications close at 6pm on Tuesday 22nd April 2025 New York time.